Aribibi Gusano (Capsicum chinense) 2L Pot
Aribibi Gusano is a Bolivian chilli variety grown for its narrow, wrinkled fruit and strong heat.
The name gusano means “worm” in Spanish and refers to the curved, irregular shape of the peppers. It is also sometimes called the Caterpillar Pepper.
The fruit begins pale green before ripening to cream or ivory white. Individual peppers may be straight, curved or heavily wrinkled.
Aribibi Gusano has a fruity Capsicum chinense flavour accompanied by hot to very hot heat. The thin fruit can be used fresh in sauces and salsas or dried for chilli flakes and seasoning.
In the UK, Aribibi Gusano grows best in a greenhouse or polytunnel where it can receive consistent warmth.
Plant Details
Botanical name: Capsicum chinense
Common names: Aribibi Gusano, Caterpillar Pepper, Worm Chilli
Plant family: Solanaceae
Habit: Compact, branching annual or tender perennial
Potential height: Approximately 50–90 cm under suitable conditions
Foliage: Broad green leaves
Flowers: Small pale flowers
Fruit: Narrow, wrinkled peppers ripening from pale green to cream or ivory
Heat level: Hot to very hot
Position: Full sun
Suitable for: Greenhouses, polytunnels, conservatories and containers
Hardiness: Tender and not frost hardy
Growing Advice
Grow your Aribibi Gusano in fertile, well-draining compost in a warm and bright position. Move the plant into a larger container if required for continued growth and fruit production.
Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth but avoid waterlogging. Do not allow the plant to repeatedly wilt while flowering or carrying fruit.
Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser during early growth. Change to a high-potassium tomato feed once flowers or young peppers appear.
The plant can be placed outside during settled warm weather but should be protected from cool nights and strong winds.
Aribibi Gusano may be overwintered in a bright, frost-free position. Reduce watering while winter growth is slow.
Fruiting in the UK
Aribibi Gusano can produce fruit in the UK when provided with steady warmth and good light.
The peppers require time to develop their mature cream or ivory colour. Greenhouse or polytunnel cultivation gives the most reliable results.
What You Will Receive
You will receive one Aribibi Gusano Chilli plant growing in a 2-litre pot. Plants are typically dispatched at approximately 20–30 cm tall.
Plants may be supplied before flowering or fruiting. Fruit shape and curvature will vary naturally.
Important Information
Aribibi Gusano peppers are hot.
Wear gloves when harvesting, cutting or preparing the peppers. Avoid touching your eyes or face and wash your hands thoroughly after handling.